All malls, hotels, leisure clubs and residential communities of Emaar will take part in event on Saturday, March 31 from 8.30 to 9.30pm

Emaar Properties PJSC, the global developer of iconic projects, will once again observe Earth Hour 2012, the world’s most popular sustainability initiative aimed at raising awareness on climate change, by hosting the ‘Earth Hour Walk’ at Downtown Dubai, the company’s flagship development on March 31, 2012.

The Earth Hour Walk, to be attended by eminent personalities in Dubai as well as the public, will be held at Burj Plaza, the venue overlooking Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, at 8.30pm.

In a tangible demonstration of commitment to ‘Earth Hour,’ Emaar will also switch off the exterior and festive lights of its wide portfolio of malls, hotels and leisure clubs. Emaar is also encouraging the residents of its master-planned communities to take part in the initiative by conserving energy use from 8.30 to 9.30pm on March 31.

Ahmad Al Matrooshi, Managing Director, Emaar Properties, said: “Earth Hour is one of the key sustainability initiatives that we have undertaken across our communities, since its inception in Dubai, to further strengthen awareness on climate change and to promote sustainable development. The participation of our communities will contribute to tangible energy gains in addition to encouraging people to be more judicious about energy use.”

He added: “As a key initiative that complements the ‘Green vision’ of the UAE Government, Earth Hour is being observed this year by Emaar with the largest potential participation. In addition to Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina Mall, Gold & Diamond Park, all Address hotels in Dubai and our various leisure clubs will switch off façade lights and external signage.”

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the SCE and MD and CEO of DEWA: “As the threat of carbon emissions across the world becomes critical, it is vital that we all take action now to reduce our own levels of consumption by not needlessly wasting electricity and water. This will only be achieved by giving thought to our natural environment in our daily lives.”

“Earth Hour 2012 and DEWA and The Dubai Supreme Council of Energy are requesting that we all take action to show our solidarity to building a sustainable environment for future generations,” he concluded.

During Earth Hour, Burj Khalifa will also switch off its water features, part of the street lighting and landscaping lights. The Dubai Fountain, the world’s largest performing fountain in the heart of Downtown Dubai, will suspend the water-music shows for one hour. All lighting, essential for security and safety, in the various communities of Emaar will function as normal. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo will switch off all non-essential lighting, while dimming the lights in the aquarium tank as part of its contribution to Earth Hour.

All the communities of Emaar Properties – Downtown Dubai, Arabian Ranches, Dubai Marina and Emirates Living, along with Emaar Business Park – will also take part in Earth Hour.